NaTrue Certification of Natural & Organic Cosmetics

The labeling of natural cosmetic products to this point has been ambiguous at best, with "natural" often meaning little more than that the product contains some naturally derived ingredients. Transparent and concise labeling laws for natural cosmetics, that could be used internationally, are long over due.

An International Association of Natural and Organic Cosmetic experts, called NaTrue, aims to clear this up by upholding "the highest possible standards for natural cosmetics and their ingredients." The three grade NaTrue label holds strict standards for natural and organic cosmetics, and any products meeting these standards can hold the NaTrue certification. These standards are publicly available and such certification makes it easier for consumers to confirm the quality of a natural cosmetic product.

The three grades of NaTrue certification set exact standards for natural, naturally-derived and organic ingredients, and are as follows: Natural Cosmetics, Natural Cosmetics with Organic Ingredients, and Organic Cosmetics. The term "cosmetics" in this case includes skin care, hair care, oral care, decorative, sun protection, personal care and perfumes.

Explanation of Labels and comparison with other certifiers can be found here: nature.org.

The NaTrue logos and what they mean are detailed below.

1 Star: Defines the quality level for Naturalness that distinguishes all authentic Natural Cosmetics — it is the foundation of all NATRUE certified products. It stipulates which ingredients are permitted and how they may be processed.

Natural Cosmetics with Organic Ingredients — 2 Stars: In addition to the requirements of the first grade, higher minimum levels of natural ingredients are required and at least 70% of natural ingredients must stem from controlled organic production and/or controlled wild collection in accordance with the EC Eco Regulation. Not all product groups can attain these quality requirements, such as shampoos.

Organic Cosmetics — 3 Stars: Minimum levels for natural ingredients are higher than for the second grade and at least 95% of their natural ingredients must stem from controlled organic production and/or controlled wild collection in accordance with the EC Eco Regulation.

This easily identifiable system crosses continental boundaries and exemplifies a straight-forward safety system for consumers. Lavera new TREND Makeup and Body Spa products carry the NaTrue label. The Body Spa product line includes Body Oil, Body Scrub, Body Lotion, Body Wash, Deodorant, Hand Cream, and Bath Salts all in a variety of fabulous scents.